In a surprising twist, Tesla’s new car sales in Spain plummeted 36% in April 2025, falling to 571 vehicles compared to the same month in 2024, despite a broader surge in electric vehicle (EV) adoption across the country. According to data released by industry group ANFAC and reported by Reuters, overall EV sales—including both fully electric and hybrid vehicles—skyrocketed by 54% in Spain over the same period. For EV owners and enthusiasts, this sharp decline raises questions about Tesla’s footing in a rapidly evolving market.

Competition Heats Up from Chinese Automakers

The Spanish EV market is witnessing a seismic shift, driven largely by Chinese automakers like BYD, MG, and Omoda. ANFAC’s report reveals that sales of these brands have soared in 2025, with BYD up 644%, MG up 80%, and Omoda up 346% year-to-date. This aggressive growth highlights a key challenge for Tesla: affordability and variety. Chinese manufacturers are offering budget-friendly EVs with diverse designs, appealing to Spanish buyers amid economic pressures. Tesla, known for its premium pricing, may be struggling to compete in a market increasingly favoring cost-conscious options.

Adding to Tesla’s woes, broader European sales trends show a 17% decline for the company in the first four months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Meanwhile, the influx of Chinese EVs into Europe is reshaping the landscape, putting pressure on established players like Tesla to adapt quickly or risk losing market share.

Elon Musk’s Political Stance Sparks Backlash

Beyond market dynamics, Tesla’s challenges in Spain and Europe are compounded by CEO Elon Musk’s polarizing public image. Musk’s vocal support for far-right politics has triggered protests across Europe, with some targeting Tesla showrooms and charging stations. Reports of vandalism at Tesla facilities in both the U.S. and Europe underscore the emotional toll of this backlash. For EV owners, this raises concerns about the brand’s reputation and its impact on resale value or public perception when driving a Tesla.

Musk recently acknowledged the strain, stating two weeks ago, “I will cut back on the time I devote to the Trump administration and spend more time running Tesla,” according to Reuters. This pivot signals a potential refocus on the company’s core mission, but for many European buyers, the damage may already be done.

EVXL’s Take: A Wake-Up Call for Tesla

At EVXL, we see this as a critical moment for Tesla to reconnect with its roots. The 36% sales drop in Spain isn’t just a number—it’s a signal that EV buyers want more than cutting-edge tech; they want a brand that aligns with their values and wallets. Chinese automakers are winning hearts with affordable, practical EVs, while Tesla’s premium models feel out of reach for many. Musk’s political controversies aren’t helping, turning off buyers who might otherwise admire Tesla’s innovation. Picture this: you’re an EV enthusiast in Spain, excited to go electric, but every Tesla showroom you pass has protest signs out front. Would you still buy?

Tesla needs to double down on what made it a pioneer—building EVs that feel accessible and inspiring, not divisive. Offering a more affordable model or expanding charging infrastructure could help win back trust. For now, Spanish EV buyers are speaking loud and clear: innovation alone isn’t enough when competition is this fierce. Tesla’s next move will determine whether it can steer back into the fast lane—or get left in the dust.

Photo courtesy of Tesla